KS3

Curriculum Structure

Teaching groups are arranged on the basis of age (i.e. Years 7, 8, 9, 10, etc). Teaching takes place in mixed ability groups, apart from Mathematics (Years 8-11), Modern Foreign Languages (Year 8 upwards) and Science (Years 10-11) where ability groupings are used.

The organisation of mixed ability groups is completed on the basis of information made available by primary schools prior to transfer of girls at Year 7. The progress of all students is carefully monitored by staff, with regular assessments taking place to ensure that appropriate programmes of study are being provided for all ability levels. If appropriate to the task, differentiated learning materials are made available to girls. A system of termly reports exists for girls in Years 7–11, which provides information on attitudes to learning and attainment. Every student has a diary which can be used as a means of communication between home and school as well as for recording work to be completed at home.

A range of teaching styles and techniques is used throughout the curriculum. This is intended to provide varied and stimulating learning for all with the methodology of the lesson being determined by that which best suits the subject matter.

The curriculum in Years 7–9 is organised to comply with the National Curriculum. In Years 7-9, girls follow a programme in which all the subjects listed below are taught separately.

  • Art
  • English
  • Geography
  • History
  • Computing
  • Mathematics
  • Music
  • Modern Foreign Languages*
  • Physical Education (PE)
  • Religious Education (RE)
  • Science
  • Technology (Food, Product Design and Textiles)

*From Year 7 students study French and German. From Year 8 they might continue to study both or specialise in one.